Kelvin Lau

Dr Kelvin Lau

Graduate Research Topic

Title: Understanding mental distress in young people from a migrant background in Australia through photo-interviewing.
Years: 2015 - 2018
Supervisors:

What has happened in your career since you completed your GR?

I continue to work as a General Practice clinician at a Headspace youth mental health service in metropolitan Melbourne. I have also expanded upon my interest in the role of creative visual practices in mental health support. I completed a Master of Fine Arts at Photography Studies College in 2023, and have been developing cross-disciplinary projects that engage creative photo-based activities to facilitate health and wellbeing outcomes.

What was the best thing about your GR?

Having the opportunity to explore and think deeply about what ‘mental health’ means beyond the perspectives and boundaries of dominant biomedical-psychological models. It was a privilege to have the time and academic support to question the things we do in everyday clinical practice.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current GR students?

Be compassionate to yourself throughout the whole duration of your research. Reflect upon your motivations during the early stages of your project, consider the things that will sustain your efforts throughout the journey, and give yourself permission to spend time with things unrelated to your research.